Joyce Foster: shop ’til you drop

The Denver Democrat said one of her favorite stores is Chicoâ€™s. She likes to write a personal check, not give a gift card for a gift. She doesnâ€™t use her debit card “because I don’t like those.” She didn’t learn until this year that she could buy all kinds of gift cards at grocery stores. She’s talking about cards for major stores, because she wouldn’t buy one of those American Express ones.

Sen. Fosterâ€™s comments came during a discussion on Senate Bill 155, which would require a store refund a customer cash if there is less than $5 left on a gift card and prohibits businesses from charging hidden fees when issuing a gift card.

She went through a lengthy hypothetical gift card purchase from Chicos, and finally wrapped it up.

â€śI have a reputation for being a super shopper and I know exactly what Iâ€™m talking about,â€ť she said, getting a big laugh from the Senate Business, Labor & Technology Committee.

The Colorado Restaurant Association and the Colorado Retail Council opposed the measure, saying the cash-back option would be an accounting nightmare.

â€śGift cards are not ATM cards,â€ť said Chris Howes of the retail council said.

The council noted that majority of cards issued by retailers no longer have service fees or expiration dates.

Joey Bunch has been a reporter for 28 years, including the last 12 at The Denver Post. For various newspapers he has covered the environment, water issues, politics, civil rights, sports and the casino industry.